Italian, Florence circa 1880. What makes an object extraordinary? In the case of a sculpture, it must be well modelled. Then, it must be cast by a capable founder so that every last detail of the clay model is captured in the metal. Finally, the condition must be flawless. Our bird meets all three criteria without ruffling a feather. Height 2 3/4+ inches, weight 3.44 oz. Troy (!!), marked with city mark and .800 in circle, for a digitally "flipped" positive image of the monogram... Click for details

1840, engine turned lid and base with applied cast and chased border, 3 by 1 5/8 by .75 inches, gilt interior, well constructed and heavy (3.17 oz. Troy). There has been a monogram removed from the rectangular cartouche, but it requires a trained eye to detect this.

Marked on bezel STERLING G. Hinged lid with spring. Height 2-7/16". Width 1-3/8". Monogram on one side is a vertical script EAP. Engraved on the other side is 1902. Overall and mark condition are excellent.

or just some royal wannabe born away in her covered chair by those two fine gents? No comment from Yours Truly. Queen or not, this is a good continental silver box with finely done acid etched cover, no monogram, excellent condition, 2 1/2 by 1 inches, marked "sterling / 935" (see second photo).

Hinged in middle. Three-dimensional figural and floral design on top and bottom of handle. Length 7-3/4". Weight 3 troy ounces. The monogram is too rubbed to read. Overall and mark condition are excellent.

guilloché enamel box, three distinct patterns visible in the engine turned engraving depending on your angle of vision (see enlargements), double hidden integral hinges opening outward from the center, gilt interior, 3 1/4 by 2 1/8 by 3/8 inches. There is a minor flake in the enamel (see third photo) which doesn't extend through to the metal, and some scuffing around the edges on reverse but aside from this the condition is superb. Marked with maker's initials F.N., .900 standard mark and... Click for details